While skin type and genes do play a role in developing skin cancer, there are many modifiable factors. Wearing sunscreen properly, covering up with clothes that block out UVA and UVB, and enjoying the sun in non-peak hours will go a long way in protecting you from developing skin cancer.

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect your skin from the sun. Here are some easy steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Stay out of the sun between 11 am and 3 pm during daylight saving hours (10 am and 2 pm at other times of the year) when the sun is strongest. These are the hours when more than 60% of the sun's UV radiation reaches the earth's surface.
• Use shade from trees, umbrellas, buildings, or any type of canopy. And be sure to choose your shade carefully. UV radiation is reflective and bounces off surfaces like concrete, water, and sand (causing you to burn even when you think you're protected).
• Wear clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible, including the back of the neck. A shirt with long sleeves and a collar, slack, skirts, or long shorts that cover your legs (or a large part of them) are best. Tightly woven fabrics provide the best protection.
• Wear a hat with a generous brim that shades the face, neck, and ears.
• Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, preferably a water-resistant one that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going out into the sun and reapply every two hours and after swimming or any activity that causes you to sweat or rub it off.
• Protect your eyes with sunglasses that provide protection against UVA and UVB rays.
• Avoid using tanning beds and sun lamps, which give off UV radiation that increases the risk of skin cancer.
• Don't rely on sunscreen as the only form of skin protection. Use it with shade, hats and clothing.

Moms & Dads:
Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Skin Cancer Victims
Take care to protect infants and young children from direct exposure to sunlight. Use shade, umbrellas, clothing, and hats to protect them. Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of 30+ on the areas of skin that cannot be protected with clothing or hats, such as the face and the back of the hands.